Keys to living a long, healthy life include food, faith, family

Living to be 100 years old is not too unusual these days. Living a productive and full life at the age of a 100 is much rarer. I had the privilege of hearing the National Geographic author, Dan Buettner, speak at a nutrition conference this week. He has traveled the world and interviewed centenarians to understand why they live so long and so well. His 2005 National Geographic article was featured in one of the best-selling issues in the magazine's history.

Our society is certainly interested in finding the fountain of youth, but we seem to be more likely to pursue the quick fix or the newest gadget rather than an overhaul of our lifestyles. What Buettner discovered might surprise you. Here are a few of the common factors he saw in those healthy 100-year-olds:

? These folks rarely sit down. They have vegetable gardens, tend sheep, knead bread dough, chop wood or work to preserve food for the next season.

? A nap during the day is common, and most get eight hours of sleep per night. There is no late-night television watching, and they have no computers or cellphones.

? They have sacred rituals such as meditation and a community of faith with which they connect at least once a week.

? No one retires. They wake up each day with a purpose. The fisherman continues to fish and help his family, neighbors and friends with the gift of his catch daily. Many volunteer and use their time and gifts to help others. You are three times more likely to die the year that you retire than any other time in your life.

? Family and close friends are essential. The elders of the family are revered and honored. The older family members are important mentors of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

? Much of centenarians' diets consists of vegetables, whole grains, beans, fruits and nuts. They drink about two glasses of wine daily and eat meat about five times a month. Meals are eaten slowly around a table with loved ones and friends. They eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and supper like a pauper. In other words, no heavy late supper meals.

About 25 percent of our life expectancy is determined by our genes and 75 percent by our lifestyles. Our busy stressful lives, sedentary jobs and unhealthy habits may need some revision for vibrant aging.

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Keys to living a long, healthy life include food, faith, family

Living to be 100 years old is not too unusual these days. Living a productive and full life at the age of a 100 is much rarer. I had the privilege of hearing the National Geographic author, Dan